Kazuo Umezu's "Mother" opens September 27th

Approaching the age of 80, Kazuo Umezu is still boisterous and still wearing red and white stripes. In fact, in recent years, there was a lawsuit concerning painting his house in the loud motif. He's also making rock and comedy appearances. Beyond being a cult figure, Umezz's work as a manga artist has inspired Junji Ito (Gyo, Uzumaki,Tomie), Usamaru Furuya, and just about any other manga artist who either took horror seriously, did the opposite and infused it with gags, or both at the same time.

His latest project will mark his directorial debut as he prepares to helm a film called Mother, opening in Japan September 27th.

The film, which Umezu is writing and directing, is based on an original story and will apparently unlock the secrets of "Umezu World." As if that isn't enticing enough, the film will feature Umezu, as portrayed by Kabuki actor Ainosuke Kataoka, who also starred in the popular TBS drama Hanzawa Naoki.

Check out the new full trailer...

Mother tells the tale of a publishing company working on a book about the life of Umezu. Lead editor Sakura starts digging into Umezu's past, including his late mother Ichie (played by Kimie Shingyoji), who was influential to his work. Shortly after, strange incidents start taking place, and the grudge of Umezu's mother reveals itself.

Umezz with otaku idol Shokotan, who will be singing theme and playing a nurse